#Dream4Justice March Tomorrow

Tomorrow I will participate in the #Dream4Justice  here in New York City. Some members of my church will also be participating. If you can, please meet at 110th Street and Lenox Ave (now Malcolm X. Blvd) at 12 noon.

SELMA

My wife and I went to the Magic Johnson Theater to see this movie. It didn't disappoint. It conjured up emotions that I felt back at that time. The bombing of a church at the beginning of the movie shook me as it did back in 1963 when it happened. 

The hatred in some white folks is hard to fathom but when you're bound by ignorance and lies, it's not all that surprising. The movie wasn't overdone or filled with sensationalist clutter. I recommend it to middle and high school students. My concern is that many may not know the history and events that took place during those tumultuous times.

To this day, the courage of those people in the face of death, jail, tear gas, and batons is truly amazing. I still wonder if I could have done what they did.

Lighthouses and Nature

As you may see I am a lover of lighthouses and nature. I visited a lighthouse back in 1982 and have read much about them since then. Lighthouses go back to ancient times and are still a viable part of life today. 

My love of nature goes back to my childhood. There were woods in the back of the complex I used to live in. I always wandered into the woods against my mother's wishes. I enjoyed wondering along the trails and exploring the shrubbery. On occasion I would see a rabbit or a chipmunk. When I was a scout I spent two weeks at summer camp. On my free time I would wander in the woods enjoying the scenery. 

When I spend time out in nature, I feel a oneness, a connection with my surroundings. I feel a closer connection possibly because I have Native American ancestry. Land has always been focal in the culture. I will keep posting photos of lighthouses and nature scenes. I hope it will encourage you to spend more time out in nature.

Genevieve's Gems

Hope lies in dreams, in imagination, and in the courage of those who dare to make dreams a reality.


~Jonas Salk, Scientist (1914-1995) 

Duxbury Pier Lighthouse

Duxbury Pier Lighthouse is located in Plymouth Harbor near Plymouth, Massachusetts. 

Buckeyes!

                                     NCAA NATIONAL CHAMPIONS!

 Congratulations, Buckeyes!

Congratulations

It's a little late but congrats are in order for these champions.


Division 2

Division 3

NAIA
Southern Oregon University

Bisons are Division 1-AA Champs

Congratulations to the Bison of North Dakota State University on winning the NCAA 1-AA football Championship coming from behind to defeat the Redbirds of Illinois State 29-27. 

Genevieve's Gems

Hope is patience with the lamp lit.


~Tertullian, Roman Author (160-225 AD)

Blackwell Island Lighthouse

Blackwell Island Lighthouse is also known as the Roosevelt Island Lighthouse and *Welfare Island Lighthouse. It was constructed and opened in 1872. The architecture is Gothic Revival.

Roosevelt Island is located on the East River between Manhattan and Queens.

*The island once had a hospital which housed drunkards, lunatics, debtors, and other downtrodden people, the hospital is now closed. 

What I Know Now

I ran cross country and track during in high school and junior college. Several years later I participated in road races. I learned much more about training and racing strategy during my road racing years. At times I remarked that if I knew these strategies back in high school my racing career may have been different.

When I reminisced about what I know now about gender and look back into my past and there really isn't much of a reference point. I came out as transgender over nine years ago. I had to start out from scratch. The one consistent aspect is that I'm still changing and growing. I notice that at the end of each year changes have occurred  though I don't feel like anything has progressed. One of the reasons may be that we may not be able to handle a particular piece of information at the particular time we discover it. 

I have learned to be patient and take in whatever good experiences that come my way. Life is a marathon and not a sprint. Past experiences can help, giving some kind of rock to stand on. When new experiences come we can move forward with confidence.  

Genevieve's Gems

Crystallize your goals. Make a plan for achieving them and set yourself a deadline. Then, with supreme confidence, determination and disregard for obstacles and other people's criticisms, carry out your plan.
goals

~Paul J. Meyer 

Happy 2015

Point Fermin Lighthouse

This wooden structure is located in Point Fermin Park in San Pedro, California. It was built 1874. The lighthouse overlooks San Pedro Bay.


Resources:

www.sanpedro.com

www.pointferminlighthouse.org/

2014-Summary

In a couple of days, the new year will begin. I have some highlights for 2014, one of them being the increased visibility of transgender people. Transgender people of color were honored more so than usual and that's good. Laverne Cox and Janet Mock set the standard for what we are about and what we still need to accomplish.  

On several occasions I educated people about being transgender and the transgender experience. Many expressed their gratitude for clearing up some of the misconceptions and questions they had. I overcame my fear of going into the ladies restroom. I was just another lady to the other women. I even received compliments on my attire. 

I saw how blessed I am when I was going through a down period in May. A dear woman confined to a wheelchair came outside from a church service. Seeing people in a wheelchair is common but my eyes focused on this woman. I thought that at one time she was young, vibrant and could go anywhere that she wanted. Now she needed help just to stand up. I thought that in spite of her limitations I detested no bitterness or feeling like a victim. That event cleared away the dark clouds hovering over me. 

I'm praying that 2015 will be even better. I'm presently setting my goals for the year (an annual ritual). Here's wishing you a Happy New Year. 

Christmas Wish

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Genevieve's Gems

And know that I am with you always; yes, to the end of time.

~Jesus Christ

Fond Du Lac Lighthouse

This lighthouse was built by unemployed laborer during the great depression. It stands as a symbol t the community because it was erected during one of the country's darkest times.


Resources:
www.lighthousefriends.com

www.fdl.com

Dialogue And Action

The recent events regarding the police shootings of African American men has sparked protests in many cities. There has been dialogue or the beginning of dialogue between between affected parties. I notice that more young people are becoming more engaged in these topics. It's encouraging but will this lead to any plan(s) of action or, like Occupy, dissipate and fade into oblivion.

I see that these events have sparked dialogue and action in other arenas such as homelessness, the war on drugs, student debt, the prison industrial complex and other areas. I also believe that we as a group and as individuals need to become informed and engaged. Churches need to be engaged in this process because it brings another component to the discussion which has a spiritual element. One of the reasons the civil rights movement stayed strong for so long was the spiritual and non violent approach he used. 

Being a part of the solution is very important to me. Having solutions to the problems can move the dialogue along and hopefully to action. This is what I desire to see. 

All's Well

I got all my Christmas shopping done today. No stress, no fuss. Lately much has been floating around i my head hence I haven't posted anything in over a week. All's well with me. Just couldn't think of anything to write. 

While I was out today, I enjoyed being Genevieve. I was called ma'am by everyone who spoke. I noticed a few men staring at me as I walked past them. I just smiled. I still mind it amazing that people still want to put us down and out just because of who we are. All we want to do is live our lives. I'm not a victim nor will I live life like I am one.

Thinking How to Respond

With all the events happening throughout the country, I am now thinking how to respond. I believe there are many areas that need to be discussed.  I can't remember the last incident that I was this conflicted. I could voice my views on a number of things here but I need to focused and provide some kind of truth and encouragement to people.

Genevieve's Gems

Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.

~Jim Rohm, Businessman (1930-2009)

Ferguson

The decision in the Michael Brown case in Ferguson, Missouri has been made. What lies ahead is anybody's guess. I am praying for the people in Ferguson. I'm praying that people will come together to resolve the problems that plague the black community-children who grow up without fathers, poor education and crime. It's sad that it seems that among the black leaders these are taboo subjects.    

Genevieve's Gems

Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds you plant.

~Robert Louis Stevenson

Thanksgiving Wishes

Be Thankful

As I have mentioned in past years, this is the time of reflection for me. Much has happened both personally and in the lives of others. 

Over the past year a number of folks in my church have moved on to greater things. I'm thankful that they have pass. Acknowledging them for their contributions and what they meant to you demonstrates a grateful heart. I am mindful that some folks who were here last year aren't with us now. It's easy to take our family and friends for granted until, one day, they aren't here. 

What are you thankful for? I enjoy the feast that I will  have and being with family and friends. I'm thankful for their kindness and hospitality. Thank the people who have meant much to you.

Thanksgiving Thoughts

Early thoughts on Thanksgiving.

Genevieve's Gems

The tree that is beside the running water is fresher and gives more fruit.

~Saint Teresa of Avila

Transgender Day Of Remembrance 2014

On Thursday evening I will attend the Transgender Day of Remembrance vigil at the community center here. I'm not sure if it get easier attending but I go nevertheless. I usually encourage the audience, sharing my experiences and at the same time challenging them to be who they are. 

This has been a tough year for transgender people especially in the last five months. With increased visibility has come attacks verbally and physically from politicians, churches, anti-trans groups and others. It won't stop us though. We've always existed and have a right to be treated with dignity and respect. 

This year I'm dedicating my TDOR day to Alex Medeiros who was beaten to death by his father to make a man out of him. Alex liked to wear his hair long, belly dance, and wear women's clothing . Alex was 8 years old.  

Genevieve's Gems

When I came out as transgender I was liberated and completed; liberated from what society says I'm supposed to be, completed because this part of my journey made me feel whole.

~Genevieve 

Eshaness Lighthouse

Eshaness (also Esha Ness) is located on the northwest of the Shetland Islands in Scotland.It is located on the Northmavine peninsula which is a remote place. It was built in 1929 by engineers David and Charles Stevenson. It was fully automated in 1974. Eshaness is used for an accommodation for the public during holidays.

I am charmed by the remoteness of Eshaness which can possibly generate some great stories and tales and artistry. American author Sharma Krauskopf spent time there and wrote a book entitled 'The Last Lighthouse'.


www.shetlandlighthouse.com

Honoring Our Veterans

Today, I went to Veteran's Day Parade. I have marched in several parades in the past but this day I was a spectator. It was wonderful that the spectators positively to the men and women who served our country. All the service branches were represented. I took special note f the WWII and Korean vets. Some of them may not be here the next parade.

I also thought of the TGLB men and women who served. Some made the  supreme sacrifice while others are struggling with a number of issues. Let's particularly remember the homeless vets (about one million) who are struggling to get the basics for their lives.

If you haven't, congratulate a veteran and thank him or her for their sacrifice. When I marched, I felt the deep appreciation the spectators have for us. Happy Veteran's Day!  

November

November is traditionally an active month for me and this year's no different. I'm taking care of the household needs while my wife recuperates from knee replacement surgery. She is coming along slowly. On Tuesday I will be at the Veteran's Day parade. I have marched in a few in the past. This time I'm going as a spectator. As a veteran I feel honored to be part of unique group of men and women. 

The Transgender Day of Remembrance vigil will be held at the community center here in New York City. I go every year because its important that I do. It' s not that I have to but I NEED to. I'm thinking of what to say at the event. I'm taking my wife out to Thanksgiving Day dinner at a restaurant. I take this day to be thankful for all things. 

As I get older I appreciate life much more because each day is precious. I have made it a concerted effort to enjoy life. 

Genevieve's Gems

Bad politicians are sent to Washington by good people who don't vote.

~William E. Simon, Public servant (1927-2000)

Post Election Toughts

The mid term elections are over. The question that comes to mind is-will anything change? I'm of the opinion that we , the people, will have to change AND do the changing. WE need to step up and make the changes that need to be made.

What we are seeing here is a transition. I see a transition of the way we do things. I's sad that many people vote out of fear rather than knowing what the candidates really stand for. I make a habit of doing my home work on each candidate running. Things I look at are their voting record, where they stand on issues, who they get their financing from and so forth. People need to really do their homework on the candidates. I never tell people who they should vote for-that's an individual choice. 

Regarding transgender concerns, I believe that it will be a topic that will have bearing in future electrons. However, WE must work together to foment change. NO one politician can do that-only us. Change will not come from the mainstream organizations because they take money from the government and thus are compromised. It will be the grassroots organizations, people of color, women, young people, the disabled, elderly, and immigrants would will lead the change. 

Some states will be very tough (Texas, for one) but progressing is being made, albeit slowly. We must not give in to disappointment, despair, and bitterness. Another election is coming in two years.

My Spiritual Birthday

It was on this day in 1972 that I accepted Jesus Christ an as my Lord and Savior. It was a life changing event for me in that my whole worldview was changed. I had a a love for all human beings and looked at each person the way Jesus would-with love and compassion. . It has been and continues to be an interesting journey. 

My journey as a transgender person mirrors my Christian journey. Actually its the same journey but Christ gives me the strength to continue and inner peace that I feel. God is still the same today as He was when I made the decision to follow him. I wouldn't change a thing about that decision.

Genevieve's Gems

You know, there's a lot of activism that doesn't deal with empowerment, and you have to empower yourself in order to be relevant to any type of struggle.

~ Talib Kweli, Musician (b.1975)

Halloween

I saw this outside one of the stores downtown.

Winter Is Coming

I was just a few feet away from my furry friend when I snapped this photo. He might be looking for acorns to store away for the winter.

Crossroads

Crossroads come up more often than you think, at least it does with me. So many choices, so many changes. When the choices are all good, then there's a dilemma of choosing which is the best road to take.  

Crossroads, in my mind, means change. Whatever happened in the past is past. the door has closed or is closing. Looking ahead there's uncertainty, trepidation, fear, and no familiarity. You can't stay where you are because change is inevitable. The only recourse is to proceed ahead. 

I'm sure the early pioneers had all the feeling mentioned above and yet they continued moving ahead. They were obstacles and setbacks but they kept going. That's the choice we all will have to make when we're at the crossroads of life.      

Genevieve's Gems

One is always considered mad, when one discovers something that others cannot grasp.


~Ed Wood, Director (1924-1978)

Ile Royale Light

Located on an island off the coast of French Guyana, Ile Royal is among a group of prisons where the worst criminals and political prisoners were sent. The 95 foot structure is almost half brick ad the rest is a skeletal structure. A watchtower, gallery and lantern top the structure.

The lighthouse is still in operation and is a tourism attraction. The water around the island is infested with sharks.


Resources:

http://www.unc.edu/~rowlett/lighthouse/photos/SouthAmerica/IleRoyale/index.htm 
http://www.pbase.com/zulakitten/isle_royale

Transgender Day Of Remembrance

I looked at the memorializing 2014 section of the Transgender Day of Remembrance website. The list seems to be larger and younger. The youngest was eight years old. Brazil sees the most transgender women murdered and this year is no different. 

With the increased visibility has come the increased violence against trans women, the vast majority women of color. We're getting it from all sides from the religious right to trans-exclusion feminists to politicians to law enforcement. We are moving forward, however.  At TDOR vigils I make it a point to pay homage to one person. This year will be no different. I will make this decision at a later date. 

In the meantime, we all need to be vigilent at this important time in history. Remembrance vigils will be held in many places around the world. Please attend one to honor the sisters and brothers we have lost this year.

Genevieve's Gems

Don't let people disrespect you. My mom says don't open the door to the devil. Surround yourself with positive people.

~Cuba Gooding, Jr., Actor (b.1968)  

My Thoughts

Over the past several months a number of trans women have been murdered. The majority of them were women of color. The more visibility we have received, the more the haters of trans people have come out.

I can understand those outside the TGLBQI community hating us. It's those inside the community that I find rehensible. We all suffered from harrasment and fear and loss of livelihoods. When the leadership positions were formed (predominantly white and male) trans people, CDs, and drag queens were shunted to the margins. Trans people were not only kept out of their organizations, we were prevented from receiving any kind of help. Personally, I feel that groups like Gay Inc.  are somewhat responsible for some of the troubles trans people experience.  Add the TERF crowd and the religious right, then there's a recipe for trouble.

I'm my travels there are many people inside and outside the community who are lacking in understanding what transgender people face. With the Transgender Day of Remembrance ceremonies coming up in a month or so, there's still so much more educating to be done. I also believe that transphobia (especially inside the community) needs to be called out.

I still believe that if trans rights were put in front in the formative years, many of the issues affecting the comunity would have been resolved. That's just my own thoughts. Let's pray that our increased visibility will open more eyes to the fact that we exist.

Genevieve's Gems

Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse

Originally built in 1825, this is the current structure which was constructed in 1875. It is located near Annapolis at the north end of the South River.,  Maryland. It is the only screw-light in Maryland still on its original spot. 

Reference:
www.thomaspointlighthouse.org

Genevieve's Gems

Wisdom is the right use of knowledge. To know is not to be wise. Many men know a great deal, and are all the greater fools for it. There is no fool so great a fool as a knowing fool. But to know how to use knowledge is to have wisdom.

~Charles Spurgeon, Clergyman (1834-1892)

Last Quarter of 2014

Today is the start of the last three months of 2014. Usually my life activities pick up especially in November. Where did the year go?

Have achieved some of the goals you set back in January? It's still not too late. I have discovered that the last quarter of the year is a time for reflection. There have been a few instances where I was a state of limbo. The picture has become much clearer and now it's up to me to follow it up.

Hot And Dry

When I was in the deserts of southeastern California, two aspects of the scenery I remember vividly. It was very hot and dry. There seemed to be no life there. You wondered how anything could survive out there in that climate.

Sometimes are lives are like the desert. You feel stuck in the middle of nowhere, not knowing which direction to go. I have felt that way on a number of occasions. Perhaps, God is allowing me to have a break from all the activity and access what's really important. I do know that things will be different from what they were. 

It can be scary with the uncertainty surrounding us.  I am reminded that I am not alone. God is there even when there seems to be nothing around me that makes sense or we can put an anchor on something that tangible. I am reminded that know I don't understand everything He is right there paving the way. I just need to trust and follow. 

Genevieve's Gems

The true secret of happiness lies in taking a genuine interest in all the details of daily life.

~William Morris, Designer (1834-1896)

New London Ledge Lighthouse

New London Ledge Lighthouse is located Thames River, located at the mouth of New London Harbor. I was struck that such a ornate structure was built in the middle of a busy waterway.

New London Ledge is on the list of haunted lighthouses. The ghost of a man named 'Ernie' who had committed suicide by slashing his throat. His body was taken by the sea but his spirit remains taking care of the lighthouse.

Poem

Amtrak
By Richard J. Fein

"We're not getting anywhere.
All you do is keep on asking
why, why. I've told you again
and again, I wasn't thinking.
What more do you want me to say?
You've got to put it behind you. Look
...huh?...hmmm...uh-huh...OKbye."
Sidling out, turning, as if needing
the rest room, I pause
ever so slightly, feign
at righting my balance before
going down the aisle,
shoot my furtive look at the body of the voice
on the cell phone-maybe twenty,
pale, white sweater, white skirt, running shoes,
and staring into the back of my seat
as if her eyes were burning a hole
right through the upholstery
to my antimacassar,
but what I can't keep
from fixing on
is the slab
of elliptic buttons on her lap.

Genevieve's Gems

It is only the farmer who faithfully plant seeds in the spring, who reaps a harvest in the autumn.


~B.C. Forbes, Journalist (1880-1954)

Autumn

Autumn will be here next week (where did the summer go?). It's my favorite season because I love the beauty of the landscape when the leaves change colors. It signals that the summer's planting and watering will yield a bountiful harvest. Apples are ripe for picking and so are grapes.

Autumn is a reminder that I am to be thankful for what good thing has come my way. I learn from the bad events and do whatever I can to correct them. As fall's slumber gradually comes let 's give thanks for all that  has happened.

We Are Called

This past Sunday's sermon really spoke to me. The minister shared that we are called by God. Our youth, preparation, and sense of inadequacies does not eliminate us from His calling.

The second point stressed was that it isn't about us. The point of Christians being called is to bring God's love and kingdom to the spiritually lost and dying. Moses didn't feel that he was good enough to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Jonah did everything he could to get out of going to Nineveh. Jeremiah thought that he was too young to prophesy to the people of his day. The sermon by the way was taken from Jeremiah chapter1, verses 4 through 10.  

God knew who we were to be before we were born. He knew that I was transgender before I was ever conceived. The takeaway message I received is I am to follow God's call whether or not I'm ready or feel ill- equipped. It's a message to all of us who call ourselves God's children.

Genevieve's Gems

Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself.

~Leo Tolstoy, Novelist (1828-1910)

Reconnecting

This past weekend I reconnected with an old friend who now lives in California. She is visiting the city for a few days before returning home. It was great hearing from her. 

This event reminds me of the times I reconnected with my true feelings. Sometime in the busyness of daily life we lose touch with ourselves. There comes a day when you feel tired, stagnant, empty. I ran out of gas. I reached a crossroads. It's not a good feeling because you feeling like you're in a rowboat in the middle of the ocean with no oars.   

Appreciating the moments that we're in  makes life worthwhile and with meaning. We can't control some things that happen in daily living but it shouldn't overwhelm us. Take the time to smell the roses. Daily duties will always be with us; friendships and precious moments won't always be there.

Genevieve's Gems

The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are.


~Joseph Campbell, Writer (1904-1987)

Life Full

I haven't posted here in several days due to some family matters. It has been quite a week to say the least. I have been reading, writing, going out and enjoying life.

The 2014 NFL season starts today (Green Bay vs. Seattle) and goes full bore on Sunday. I will post my predictions tomorrow. College football has gotten underway in what I believe will be a topsy-turvy year.

Summer is almost over but the fall is approaching. It's my favorite time of year, especially when the leaves change colors. I hope to take my granddaughter apple picking upstate in a few weeks. No climbing trees for me, though. I' m a little too old for that.